NHL Insider Reveals the Probable Structure of John Tavares' Next Maple Leafs Contract
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Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares is negotiating a new deal with the franchise, and there has been a lot of speculation about what kind of deal he will get.
John Tavares was easily one of the best players on the Toronto Maple Leafs this season as he finished with 38 goals and 36 assists for a total of 74 points.
Overall, his production was off the charts for a 34-year-old, and this has ultimately created a complicated situation for the Maple Leafs, who figured they could re-sign Tavares at a bargain.
Originally, the Leafs were expected to ink a three-year deal at about $5 million per season. However, Tavares has been so good that such a term would yield an AAV of $7 million.
How much is John Tavares worth?
In order for Tavares to make sense, the Leafs would need to make the books work. According to James Mirtle, there is actually a solution that makes sense for both sides.
Essentially, the Leafs could extend the term to six years and offer a smaller AAV that would help the team out immediately. It is a smart decision, and one that Tavares would want to go for.
On the JD Bunkis Show, Mirtle says something like the Tanev contract (6x$4.5M) is the right ballpark for Tavares and with deferred money, Mirtle thinks the Leafs can get Tavares for 6 years under $4M AAV
Then you talk to Berube about the role, he can't be 2C in the playoffs
Then you talk to Berube about the role, he can't be 2C in the playoffs
The Leafs would be smart to bring back Tavares, given what he means to the franchise and just how well he played last season.
Although general manager Brad Treliving wants to change this team's DNA, it might just be the smarter option to keep some things the same, at least for right now.
Meanwhile, the Leafs have some other contract negotiations to figure out. Matthew Knies is certainly at the top of the list thanks to his impending free agency.
Only time will tell what the Leafs roster looks like next season and whether or not the fans feel as though it is satisfactory.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 9 | 385 ANSWERS NHL Insider Reveals the Probable Structure of John Tavares' Next Maple Leafs Contract Do you think John Tavares would sign long-term with the Toronto Maple Leafs? | ||
| YES | 323 | 83.9 % |
| NO | 62 | 16.1 % |
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